Don't Hide Your Hydrant

Bega Valley Shire along with the NSW Fire & Rescue and NSW Rural Fire Brigade maintains around 4,500 water hydrants to ensure they are visible, accessible and in working order.

What is a water hydrant?

A water hydrant is used by fire fighters to access the water supply in the case of a fire. It is also used by Council for maintenance purposes.

Where are hydrants located?

Water hydrants are located below ground. Their lids are usually located on the road, footpath or nature strip. In urban areas, hydrants are usually located along one side of the street about 60 metres apart. The location of hydrants is shown by small indicator signs on posts, power poles or along the shoulder of the road or gutter. They may also be identified by blue indicator markers to the left or right of the road centre.

What does a hydrant look like?

Water hydrants can be quickly identified by their cast iron square shaped lids. The lids have a capital 'H' on the top and are usually white or black in colour. This helps assists fire fighters to quickly identify them.

Why are hydrants important?

During an emergency, including a bush or house fire, it is important to know where the water hydrants are located. Having clear access to a water hydrant can make a difference to how quickly an emergency can be brought under control.

It is important to ensure there are no obstructions preventing fire fighters from locating and connecting hoses to hydrants. Also the hydrant needs to be clear of grass or soil. There should also be no bush or tree limbs that could interfere with anyone approaching the hydrant and attempting to operate it.

Don't hide your hydrant

Make sure you regularly keep grass and other obstructions away from hydrants. If you notice a hydrant that is damaged or requires repainting, please contact Bega Valley Shire Council on (02) 6499 2222.

This information has been prepared with the cooperation of Tathra Volunteer Rural Fire Brigade